Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

This easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Its rich pumpkin flavor combined with warm spices creates a cozy atmosphere, making it ideal for fall gatherings or as a comforting snack. The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch, elevating this bread to a must-try recipe. Whether you serve it at a brunch or enjoy it with a cup of coffee, this pumpkin bread will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires no advanced baking skills.
• Delicious Flavor: Packed with pumpkin and warm spices, each slice is bursting with flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with friends.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or even topped with cream cheese.
• Freezes Well: You can make extra loaves and freeze them for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 8×4 bread pans
• Whisk or spoon
• Pastry cutter or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Helps keep ingredients organized while allowing ample space for mixing.
• 8×4 bread pans: The right size ensures that your bread bakes evenly and achieves the perfect shape.
• Pastry cutter or fork: Ideal for creating the crumb topping by cutting cold butter into dry ingredients effectively.

Ingredients

This easy Pumpkin Bread recipe is topped with a brown sugar crumb topping (aka, a streusel topping). Full of pumpkin flavor and rich pumpkin spice, this moist pumpkin bread is a fall staple!

Ingredients:
– 3 1/3 cups all purpose flour
– 1 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tsp baking soda
– 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground allspice
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
– 4 eggs, large
– 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
– 2/3 cup water
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 3/4 cup all purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two 8×4 bread pans by placing parchment paper in the bottom and greasing them with baking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the following ingredients:
* 3 1/3 cups of all purpose flour
* 1 1/2 tsp of salt
* 2 tsp of baking soda
* 1 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon
* 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg
* 1/4 tsp of ground cloves
* 1/4 tsp of ground allspice
* 1/4 tsp of ground ginger

Combine well until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Add in:
* 2 cups of granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup of brown sugar

Mix until combined well.

Step 4: Incorporate Oil

Make a well in the center of the mixture and add:
* 1 cup of canola oil (or vegetable oil)

Mix just until combined; note that the mixture will be dry.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Add:
* The four large eggs, two at a time

Mix after each addition until incorporated well. The mixture will still appear dry.

Step 6: Blend in Pumpkin

Add:
* One can (15 oz) of pumpkin puree,
* Two-thirds cup of water,
* One teaspoon of vanilla extract

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Prepare Pans

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared bread pans. Set aside while you prepare the crumb topping.

Step 8: Make Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine:
* Three-fourths cup of all purpose flour,
* One-half cup of brown sugar,
* One teaspoon of ground cinnamon

Cut in:
* One-half cup of cold cubed butter

Use a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 9: Sprinkle Topping

Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over both batters in the bread pans.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about:
55–65 minutes

Check for doneness by inserting a cake tester; it should come out clean. If necessary, tent foil over the top if it’s browning too quickly.

Step 11: Cool Down

Allow to cool for approximately ten minutes before removing loaves from their pans. Place them on a wire rack to finish cooling completely.

Step12: Serve

Slice your Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping, serve it up, and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of serving ideas to enhance your experience.

Breakfast Delight

• Spread Cream Cheese: A thick layer of cream cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the bread.
• Top with Fresh Fruit: Slices of banana or berries can bring freshness and balance the richness of the pumpkin bread.

Afternoon Snack

• Pair with Tea or Coffee: Enjoying a slice with your favorite hot beverage makes for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
• Add Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter spread on top offers added protein and a delightful nuttiness.

Dessert Option

• Serve Warm with Ice Cream: Heating up a slice and adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a decadent dessert.
• Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of caramel enhances the flavors and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

To ensure your Easy Pumpkin Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips. They will help you achieve that moist texture and delicious flavor.

• Use Fresh Spices: Always use fresh spices for the best flavor. Stale spices can diminish the overall taste of your bread.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques to ensure you have the right proportions for perfect consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid dense bread. Overmixing can lead to tougher textures.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your bread at 55 minutes. Every oven is different, and early checks prevent overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Pumpkin Bread can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A bowl of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making it a balanced option.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad complements the sweetness of the pumpkin bread while adding nutrients.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding provides texture and pairs well with the warm spices in pumpkin bread.
4. Cinnamon Applesauce: The spiced flavor of applesauce echoes the pumpkin’s spices and makes for a comforting side.
5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enhance your pumpkin experience by enjoying this seasonal drink alongside your slice.
6. Mixed Nuts: A small bowl of mixed nuts offers crunch and healthy fats, providing contrast to the soft bread texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with something as delightful as Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Using the wrong type of pumpkin: Make sure to use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter your bread’s flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread rather than a light, fluffy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons. Incorrect measurements can affect the outcome of your Easy Pumpkin Bread.
• Skipping the crumb topping: Don’t skip the crumb topping! It adds a delicious crunch and enhances the overall flavor of your bread.
• Not checking for doneness: Always test doneness with a cake tester or toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready; if not, give it more time in the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Freezing Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor retention.

Reheating Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat; cover and warm for about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just make sure it’s well blended and cooked down enough to avoid excess moisture.

How do I customize my Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits like cranberries for extra flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have all the spices?

You can substitute with pumpkin spice mix if you’re missing individual spices. Use about 1 tablespoon instead.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Pumpkin Bread with Crumb Topping is perfect for fall baking and delicious any time of year. Its moist texture paired with a crunchy topping makes it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins or spices for a personal touch!